If anyone knows how to create the world you want to live in, it’s you, the College Fashionista community. As inspiring changemakers, you’ve launched businesses, become influencers, and ultimately, are creating the spaces the next generation needs.
The CF Clubhouse has always provided a space for you to flex your ambition and collaborate with like-minded go-getters. This year, we took Clubhouse one step further with a month-long immersive digital experience curated especially for you. Between motivating panels, productive workshops, and connection-building events, we learned so much from Clubhouse this year, and we hope you did too! Here are some of my favorite highlights and takeaways:
Create a personalized workspace to stay productive and inspired.
One of my favorite events was hosted by Lara von Linsowe-Wilson, the Influencer Marketing and Community Manager at Her Campus Media. In Navigating The New Normal: WFH Tips & Tricks, Lara and her co-panelists shared the essential things we should all do when working from home, like buying a new desk and using blue light glasses or decorating your workspace with flowers. While I’m definitely still creating my perfect setup, Lara’s session gave me some great ideas for how to stay productive and inspired while working from home.
I don’t have to be glued to my computer all day.
As someone who notoriously eats lunch while working (or forgets to take a lunch break altogether), I really appreciated this advice from Mary Kate Flock, the Community Coordinator at Instagram @shop. Mary Kate mentioned how she takes at least a 30 minute lunch break every day, and sometimes goes for a midday walk or run to decompress. After hearing her advice at Clubhouse, I’m definitely going to incorporate more breaks and movement into my day!
If you want to start a side hustle, figure out your ‘why.’
I’ve always admired my friends who pursue side hustles in addition to full-time work. This year at Clubhouse, I loved hearing from Her Campus’s Ashleigh Lalla during The Side Hustle Is Real, where she interviewed inspiring women who started side hustles in fashion, media, and design. My favorite piece of wisdom: if you want to start a side hustle, get clear on why. What’s the passion driving the project, and why does the world need it? For anyone considering a side hustle, this is solid advice — your “why” will help you stay focused when the going gets tough.
Take time to disconnect — it can work wonders for your happiness.
With screen time at an all-time high, it can be tough to separate from the digital world. In How To Connect & Disconnect presented by Hallmark, I loved hearing advice from Cece Merkle, the Creative Director of Trends and Innovation, about how non-digital touchpoints can make connecting feel more personal. Cece shared how sending a physical card can help boost someone’s day and help you show gratitude, which can improve your wellness. Brb, about to send snail mail to everyone I know.
Pause and look for joy in everyday moments.
I had no idea what “joy spotting” was until Cece mentioned it during her workshop at CF Clubhouse. Trust me, you’ll want to add this practice to your daily routine! Joy spotting is when you integrate little moments of joy into your day, from decorating your space with bright colors to noticing things you may normally overlook, like fresh flowers blooming in your neighborhood. Turns out joy spotting can actually help you stay inspired and motivated. AKA my perfect excuse to buy more wall decor…
Networking can lead to amazing opportunities.
Connecting with others during a pandemic can be challenging, but now is a great time to foster connections digitally. During How To Own A Virtual Interview, Natalia Brache, head of PR at NAL Media, mentioned the importance of networking through LinkedIn and getting in touch with alumni from your school by sending a personalized note. This is an amazing piece of advice for anyone who wants to establish a stronger network, explore your career path, and hear about new opportunities. Don’t be afraid to message people you don’t know, or even grab a virtual coffee — you never know where that connection might lead!
Be confident and advocate for yourself.
Chances are if you’re reading this, you’re already a passionate go-getter who knows what she wants. Now more than ever, it’s important to keep that drive and continue advocating for yourself. I loved this quote from Natalia Brache during Clubhouse: “Nobody knows you better than you do!” In other words, be confident in your ability to succeed. Advocating for yourself can lead to some pretty amazing results.
TBH, I’m feeling super inspired after Clubhouse this year. I learned a ton from our workshop hosts and panelists about navigating the new normal, starting a side hustle, balancing screen time with self-care, and more. I hope you did, too! As an inspiring go-getter in the College Fashionista community, we know you’ll continue to change the world and take control of your dreams. Next time you need a boost of inspiration, watch the Clubhouse replay here.
